How to Become a Notary in New Hampshire

Are you looking for a rewarding way to serve your local community and make some extra money? Becoming a Notary in New Hampshire may be just the opportunity for you! As a Notary, you have an important role: witnessing signatures on official paperwork from wills, birth certificates, loan applications, contracts & other legal documents. You’ll need to be organized and reliable as public notaries carry out their duties honestly, providing transparency during signatory ceremonies. Read on to learn how easy it is to become a certified notary in New Hampshire!

What do you need to become a New Hampshire Notary Public?

1. Be at least 18 years old.
2. Be a New Hampshire resident or a resident of an abutting state who is regularly employed or carries on a trade, business, or practice in New Hampshire at the time of applying.
3. Not have been convicted of a crime that has not been annulled by a court, other than minor traffic violations. 
4. Be endorsed by two New Hampshire notaries public and a New Hampshire registered voter.

How do I get a notary commission in New Hampshire?

To become a notary in New Hampshire, you must submit an application and follow the process below.

• The application is obtained from the Secretary of State’s Office The application includes the Acknowledgement of Criminal Record Check. You MUST complete and submit the entire original application to the Secretary of State’s Office with a $75 fee.
• The New Hampshire Secretary of State will use the Acknowledgement of Criminal Record Check to check the New Hampshire State Police database to see if you have a record of criminal convictions in the state police records.
• Your application will be submitted to the Governor and Executive Council for nomination.
• Your application will be submitted to the Governor and Executive Council for appointment.
• Within a week after appointment, you will receive your commission, oath, Notary Public Manual and other information from the Secretary of State’s Office.
• Sign and take your oath of office in the presence of two justices of the peace, or two notaries public, OR one notary public and one justice of the peace. Those who sign your oath should also sign your commission.
• Return the oath to the New Hampshire Secretary of State as soon as possible. Unless your oath is on file, they cannot certify that you are qualified as a notary.
• Keep the commission for your records. 

What can a notary do in the state of New Hampshire?

As a New Hampshire Notary, you have the authority to perform the following notary services:

• Acknowledgements
• Oaths and affirmations
• Jurats
• Depositions
• Copy Certifications
• Witnessing or attesting signatures
• Protests

Is a notary exam required to become a notary in New Hampshire?

No, New Hampshire does not require a notary exam to become a notary public. However, it is highly recommended that you read the Notary Public Manual given to you when you receive your commission and other materials on being a notary, so that you are fully informed of the duties and obligations of a New Hampshire Notary.

Is notary training required to become a notary in New Hampshire?

No, New Hampshire does not require notary training to become a Notary Public and to perform notarial acts. However, you can take an online notary education course if you want more excellent knowledge and confidence in your new role.

Is a notary bond required to become a notary in New Hampshire?

No, a notary surety bond is not required in New Hampshire. However, it is highly recommended that you purchase a Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance policy to protect yourself from any potential mistakes or negligence while performing your duties.

Is a notary errors and omissions insurance policy required to become a notary in New Hampshire?

No, a notary errors and omissions insurance policy is not required in New Hampshire. However, it is a good idea for you to buy a Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance policy. This will protect you from any potential mistakes or bad decisions that you might make while doing your job.

How much does it cost to become a notary in New Hampshire?

A fee of $75 is required to be submitted when applying for a New Hampshire Notary Public commission.

If you are a notary public in New Hampshire, there are mandatory supplies that must be purchased to fulfill your duty. The cost of these items depends on the variety and brands you choose – an average rubber stamp notary seal (also known as a notary stamp) will likely run between fifteen and twenty-five dollars, while a notary journal may range from ten to fifty dollars. Additionally, consider purchasing pens, sticky notes, and refills for your official seal when making any purchases!

How long is the term of a notary public commission in New Hampshire?

Upon approval of your appointment by the Governor and Council, you will be commissioned as a notary public for 5 years from that date. The exact day of which is displayed on your commission document.

How long does it take to become a notary in NH?

The application process will take 8-10 weeks.

Can a New Hampshire Notary Public perform remote notarization?

Yes, New Hampshire allows Notaries to perform remote notarization. This means that two parties can be in different locations, with the Notary Public verifying their identities through audio/video technology and witnessing the signing of a document or administering an oath or affirmation. You must register to perform online notarizations after receiving your notary commission.

How much can a New Hampshire notary public charge for performing notarial acts?

New Hampshire has set the maximum fee a Notary Public may charge for performing notarial acts at $10.00 per signature for traditional notarizations and $25 for remote online notarization.

How do I become a notary signing agent in NH?

To become a Notary Signing Agent in New Hampshire, you must first be commissioned as a Notary Public. Once you have your commission, you can purchase a Notary Signing Agent course, which will provide training on proper protocol for completing notarial acts, identify fraud prevention techniques, and provide additional resources. After completing the course, you must apply to one of the major Title Companies or Signing Services to be added to their network of notaries. Once accepted, you will have access to assignments for loan document signings for which you can get paid.